Born on December 14, 1943, in Spotsylvania, Virginia, to the late Vannie Colie Brooks and Burnell Brooks Lawley, Doris dedicated her life to her family, nurturing those she came in contact with every day with unwavering love and support. Affectionately called Nanny, her family was her world, and her warmth and kindness created a legacy of love that will continue to grow through generations.  

Doris was dedicated not just to her family but also to her work. After 43 years at Wrangler-Blue Bell and 13 years at Cintas, Doris retired in 2015. She exemplified hard work and perseverance, inspiring those around her with her commitment. Doris was also an anthophile, a true definition of someone who loved flowers. She found joy in tending to her flowers, knowing each by name. Her garden reflected her vibrant spirit, a sanctuary filled with beauty.  

Doris was a friend to all, eager to lend a helping hand or strike up a conversation anywhere. Her generous heart and smile left an unforgettable mark on everyone she met. She cherished the longtime friendship with Gertie Backe, as well as her church family at Abundant Life Fellowship Church who cared for her deeply. 

Including her parents, Doris was preceded in death by her husband, Delmer G. Seal, Sr., her brothers, Wilentz “Punk” Brooks, James R. Brooks, and Robert “Joe” Brooks, her sister, Carolyn Brooks Williams, and her grandson, Phillip J. Coleman.  

Doris is survived by her siblings, Lorene M. Brooks and husband, Waldo, of Partlow, Calvin R. Brooks and wife, Della, of Spotsylvania, and Steve W. Brooks and wife, Karen, of Williamsburg. She is survived by her children, Barbara Seal and fiancé, Jimmy Molton, of Rhoadesville, Teresa Seal Coleman and husband, Tito, of Rhoadesville, Delmer G. Seal, Jr., and wife, Elaine, of Orange, and Vincent W. Seal and wife, Stephanie, of Orange. She is also survived by thirteen grandchildren, Olivia “Libby” Carver, Aimee M. Carver, John I. Carver, Angela L. Coleman, James “Matt” Coleman, Adam B. Coleman, Jackson B. Coleman, Wade E. Coleman, Bryan A. Seal, Lauren M.A. Seal, Bradley L. Seal, Tyler W. Seal, and Courtney L. Seal, sixteen great-grandchildren, Jaiden Highley, Ross Warren, Coleman Marks, Gent Hummill, Amelia Rose, Matthew Coleman, Lindsey Coleman, Landon Coleman, Isabelle Coleman, Addyson Seal, Ashby Seal, Ayla Seal, Ainsley Utz, Layton Utz, Alex Utz, and Sur Seal, one great-great-grandchild, Naomi Marks, a host of nieces and nephews, and a special aunt, Stella Pennington. Doris also leaves behind her beloved cat, Sugarplum, who watched over her to the end.   

The family will receive friends on Tuesday, December 17, 2024, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Preddy Funeral Home, 250 West Main Street, Orange, Virginia. A service will be held on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, at 11 a.m. at Preddy Funeral Home in Orange with Pastor Dwane Pugh officiating. Interment will immediately follow at Graham Cemetery, Orange, Virginia. After the burial, the family welcomes everyone to Abundant Life Church Fellowship, 19103 Brick Church Road, Orange, Virginia.

Though Doris may be absent from this earth, she is present with the Lord. Her love and light will forever shine in our hearts.